Build-A-Bear Workshop® Donates $1 Million for World Wildlife Fund

ST. LOUIS - Build-A-Bear Workshop® announced today it has given $1 million to World Wildlife Fund (WWF) through the sales of its WWF Collectibear® stuffed animal series. For each plush animal sold one dollar goes to WWF to protect and conserve wildlife around the world.

Six years ago Build-A-Bear Workshop introduced the Giant Panda, the first in a series of co-branded stuffed animals. Since then, a new furry friend has been launched each year, many representing animals in danger around the world. In addition to the Giant Panda, Build-A-Bear Workshop has sold the Bengal Tiger, Leopard, Lion, Polar Bear and the Giraffe. The Giraffe, the newest in the series of stuffed animals, is available in all Build-A-Bear Workshop stores and on the company's Web site at www.buildabear.com. Each WWF Collectibear® animal comes with a collector's medallion featuring the WWF official panda logo and a numbered Certificate of Authenticity, further enhancing its value to collectors.

"We are a company with heart and it has always been a priority for us to be an involved and committed community partner," said Maxine Clark, founder and chief executive bear of Build-A-Bear Workshop. "Our Guests have tremendous compassion for animals in need and it is with their help that we have been able to reach this milestone for the World Wildlife Fund. We are proud of our partnership with WWF and their great work."

"Build-A-Bear Workshop® has been an essential partner in furthering our conservation goals," said Terry Macko, vice president of membership at World Wildlife Fund. "The WWF Collectibear® stuffed animals not only raise funds to support our work but also bring awareness to the plight of threatened and endangered animals."